[et_pb_section fb_built=\u00a0\u00bb1″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb2px|||||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″]<\/p>\n
Below is a brief overview of the production and usage of the world’s first postage stamps, as told through some of the spectacular, rare and unusual items we have on offer in our Great Britain auction on 20th June 2024<\/a>.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb2px||2px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Brief Background<\/strong><\/p>\n The story begins with Sir Rowland Hill, the father of the postal reform who, from his booklet entitled \u00ab\u00a0Post Office Reform: Its Importance and Practicability\u00a0\u00bb in 1837, kicked off the uniform fourpenny post on 5th December 1839 and the uniform penny post shortly after on 10th January. It continued with the introduction of, in his own words, \u00ab\u00a0a bit of paper just large enough to bear the stamp, and covered at the back with a glutinous wash\u00a0\u00bb in May. This bit of paper became the world’s first postage stamps; the Penny Black and Twopenny Blue (see fig. 1).<\/p>\n \n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224462ex1.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 Mint Penny Black\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50216\/1840-1d-black-and-1d-red-plates-1a-to-11-1840-1d-black-pl6-ia-and-1840-2d-blue-pl1-ad-two-stunning-m\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb align=\u00a0\u00bbcenter\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224462ex2.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 Mint 2d blue\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50216\/1840-1d-black-and-1d-red-plates-1a-to-11-1840-1d-black-pl6-ia-and-1840-2d-blue-pl1-ad-two-stunning-m\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 1: Lot 50216 in our upcoming June 20th 2024 auction series, an 1840 1d black pl.6 IA and an 1840 2d blue pl.1 AD, two stunning mint examples of the world\u2019s first two postage stamps.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_2,1_4,1_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb12px|||||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n The Treasury Competition<\/strong><\/p>\n After the Government’s acceptance of the postal reform proposals, the Treasury issued an invitation to artists, scientists and the general public to submit ideas and designs for the prepaid postage stamps and stamped paper. More than 2’600 suggestions and designs were submitted, and although there was no outright winner, four entries shared the prize money of \u00a3100; a joint entry by James Bogardus and Francis Coffin, Benjamin Cheverton, Henry Cole and Charles Whiting.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224125.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1839 Treasury Competition essays, attributed to James Bogardus\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50005\/1839-treasury-competition-1839-treasury-competition-essays-anonymous-attributed-to-james-bogardus-sh\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb width=\u00a0\u00bb100%\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb|||-14px||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 2: Lot 50005 from our upcoming 20th June auction, an 1839 Treasury Competition essays, attributed to James Bogardus, showing a hand drawn numeral in pen and ink \u201c1\u201d in the centre of a red border and bearing the legend below \u201d 1\/2 oz. \/ Penny\u201d in manuscript<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb7px|||||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||1px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n The Printers<\/strong><\/p>\n Perkins, Bacon, Petch had been in correspondence with Rowland Hill and Henry Cole about printing as early as July 1839. In September they submitted some examples of Charles Whiting’s \u00ab\u00a0POST OFFICE PERMIT\u00a0\u00bb (fig. 3). They commissioned Henry Corbould to draw the Queen’s head and began experimenting with an engine-turned background. In early 1840 they produced an engraved plate showing two circles containing Britannia seated and six smaller circles containing the Lord’s Prayer (fig. 4). These intricate engine-turned designs were deemed the best method of security against forgery at the time.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb2_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224297-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1839 Charles Whiting %22Post Office Permit%22 lettersheet printed in green\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50010\/1839-treasury-competition-1839-post-office-permit-letter-sheet-printed-in-green\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||7px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 3: Lot 50010 from our upcoming 20th June 2024 auction, an 1839 Charles Whiting \u00ab\u00a0Post Office Permit\u00a0\u00bb lettersheet printed in green by Perkins, Bacon, Petch.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_3″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/223992-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbPerkins Bacon engine turned sample\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50013\/1839-treasury-competition-1839-treasury-competition-perkins-bacon-and-petch-essay-prepared-to-illust\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||16px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 4: Lot 50013 from our upcoming 20th June 2024 auction<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb21px||0px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb3_5″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n In January 1840 they employed engravers Charles Heath and his son Frederick to commence engraving the portrait of the Queen on an engine-turned background. Four stages of the proofs exist; the first showing an early stage of the head engraving, the second with the head completed but uncleared spaces around, the third with the spaces engraved, and the fourth with the addition of \u00ab\u00a0POSTAGE ONE PENNY\u00a0\u00bb at foot. Figure 5 shows the unique example of the stage 4 proof with the legend excised. This engraving was rejected as being too fine to transfer well to the roller die and subsequently to the plate (as needed in the production of line engraved printing).<\/p>\n Work started on the second die in mid-January and it was completed by 23 January, showing a much darker background than the rejected die. It was approved by the Queen on 2 March. Essays for the inscriptions and corner squares at top and bottom began in February, with \u00ab\u00a0POSTAGE\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a0ONE PENNY\u00a0\u00bb being selected along with stars in the top corners and check letters in the lower corners (which were to be punched onto the hardened plate).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb2_5″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224473.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbJanuary 1840 1st rejected die for the 1d black (fourth stage)\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50016\/line-engraved-essays-plate-proofs-colour-trials-and-reprints-january-1840-1st-rejected-die-for-the-1\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||1px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 5: Lot 50016 in our upcoming 20th June 2024 auction, the January 1840 1st rejected die for the 1d stamp in black (fourth stage) with the words \u201cPOSTAGE ONE PENNY\u201d excised<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb5px||5px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Cancellations<\/strong><\/p>\n The possibility of reusing the stamps was a constant concern for Rowland Hill (see the Rainbow Trials section further down), so a way of obliterating the stamp rendering it unusable without detection was sought.<\/p>\n The first essay for an adhesive stamp showing a cancellation was that submitted by James Chalmers on 8th February 1838, and when he submitted essays for the Treasury Competition in 1839 he used the same Dundee two-line ds to obliterate his designs. Figure 6 shows the 1d and 2d essays he submitted to the Treasury Competition which feature in our 20th June 2024 auction of Great Britain. This idea of cancelling the stamp with a datestamp may well have originated from his ideas so these are important items in the history of philately.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224063.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1839 Treasury Competition 1d essay by James Chalmers \u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50003\/1839-treasury-competition-1839-treasury-competition-essays-james-chalmers-1d-essay-in-black-on-grey-\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 6: Lots 50003 and 50004 in our upcoming June 20th auction, two examples of the essays by James Chalmers submitted to the 1839 Treasury Competition.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224065.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1839 Treasury Competition 2d essay by James Chalmers \u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50004\/1839-treasury-competition-1839-treasury-competition-essays-james-chalmers-2d-essay-type-3-bates-j-in\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb2px||2px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n There were four types of trial cancellation known to have been used; a barred circle, eight concentric circles with a sold centre (see fig. 10), a circular dated stamp and what philatelists know as the \u00ab\u00a0Maltese Cross\u00a0\u00bb. Fig. 4 shows lot 50043 from our upcoming June 20th 2024 auction, an archive piece showing a pair of Penny Blacks with the left example cancelled by a Maltese Cross endorsed \u00ab\u00a0obliterating stamp\u00a0\u00bb<\/a>, and the right stamp with the circular datestmp. The Maltese Cross was the chosen device to cancel the stamps. The earliest record of it is in a letter written by William Bokenham, the Secretary of the Inland Office, on 31 March 1840, sent to Lt. Col. Maberly, Secretary of the Post Office:<\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0I beg to submit to your notice specimens of the stamp’s proposed for destroying the Penny and Two Penny Letter Stamps\u00a0\u00bb<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/223104.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 Penny Blacks with trial cancellations\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50043\/line-engraved-essays-plate-proofs-colour-trials-and-reprints-1840-1d-black-pl1a-gi-gj-horizontal-pai\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb-2px||-2px|||\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb6px||6px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb2px||2px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 4: Lot 50043 from our upcoming June 20th auction, a trial cancellation piece with a Maltese Cross and circular datestamp<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb5px||5px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb||10px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n The keyword seemingly being \u00ab\u00a0destroying\u00a0\u00bb! The handstamp was cut in brass, mass produced, and distributed to postmasters on 25th April 1840. Subsequent supplies were sometimes made locally and differ to a great or lesser extent from those manufactured in London. \u00ab\u00a0The Maltese Cross\u00a0\u00bb set of three volumes by Rockoff and Jackson is an essential resource to understand and identify these \u00ab\u00a0distinctive Maltese Crosses<\/a>\u00ab\u00a0. Illustrated below in fig. 5 is a strip of six 1840 2d blue with six strikes of the distinctive Maltese Cross of York.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb10px||10px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224010-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 2d strip with York distinctive Maltese Cross\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50379\/distinctive-maltese-cross-cancellations-1840-2d-blue-pl2-in-horizontal-strip-of-6-cancelled-with-six\/?soff_session_keywords=50379″ url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb2px||2px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 5: Lot 50379 in our 20th June 2024 auction, a strip of six 1840 2d blue with the distinctive Maltese Cross of York<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb17px||17px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Although postal regulations were clear that the stamps should be cancelled with the Maltese Cross and back-stamped by the first receiving office, there are various examples of postmasters not conforming. Examples are known, and listed by Stanley Gibbons, with circular town handstamps<\/a> both dated and undated (such as fig. 6, lot 50391, a marginal strip of 1841 1d reds with Cirencester datestamps), \u00ab\u00a0Penny Post\u00a0\u00bb handstamps<\/a>, and later usages with 1844 numeral cancellations. Figure 7 is particularly unusual as it cancelled not only by the Maltese Cross but also by a \u00ab\u00a0NEWENT \/ 117\u00a0\u00bb mileage mark, which should have been phased out with the introduction of the uniform postage.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb3_4,1_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb4px|||||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb3_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224198.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 1d red marginal strip with Cirencester town circle datestamps\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50391\/town-circular-datestamps-1841-1d-red-pl-32-tf-tj-a-fine-used-marginal-strip\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb4px||4px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 6: Lot 50391 in our upcoming 20th June 2024 auction<\/a>, an 1841 1d red marginal strip of five with Cirencester circular datestamps<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/226755.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 1d black with NEWENT 117 mileage mark\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50395\/town-circular-datestamps-1840-1d-black-pl3-oe-with-neat-orange-red-mc-and-partial-newent-117-mileage\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb2px||2px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 7: Lot 50395 in our 20th June 2024 auction<\/a>, a Penny Black with a \u00ab\u00a0NEWENT \/ 117\u00a0\u00bb mileage mark<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb4px||9px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb1px|||||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0The \u00ab\u00a0Rainbow\u00a0\u00bb Colour Trials<\/strong><\/p>\n The \u00ab\u00a0Rainbow\u00a0\u00bb colour trials began in early May 1840, after the release of the Penny Black and Twopenny Blue, to test various combinations of stamp and cancellation ink in order to perform experiments to try to remove the cancellations. There were two plates produced to perform these trials. The first was a sheet of three impressions (fig. 8). These stamps were transferred from the defective roller impression showing the \u00ab\u00a0O\u00a0\u00bb flaw just to the lower right of the \u00ab\u00a0O\u00a0\u00bb in \u00ab\u00a0ONE\u00a0\u00bb. The north east corners of each impression were defaced to prevent their usage for postage. It has been historically thought that this was done with wax, but it is possible it was either done with a more durable filler or perhaps even ground down to achieve this effect.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/223106-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 Rainbow trials sheetlet of 3″ url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50025\/line-engraved-essays-plate-proofs-colour-trials-and-reprints-1840-rainbow-colour-trials-the-first-tr\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||6px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 8: Lot 50025 in our upcoming June 20th auction<\/a>, the first trial plate of three in blue-black on smaller crown watermark paper with manuscript notation \u201cdipt H & H Colour\u201d in the hand of Joshua Bacon down the right side<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb4px||3px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n This format of three was likely not highly suitable for conducting experimental trials due to it’s size, and a second trial plate of 12 impressions was produced, using a different roller die than that used for the small trial plate as the impressions don’t show the \u00ab\u00a0O\u00a0\u00bb flaw. Two examples of these sheets without voided corners are known in the Royal Philatelic Collection and in the Postal Museum. In private hands, only impressions with voided corners exist.<\/p>\n There are three states with the voided corners that exist, that can be identified by minor markings such as the guidelines, burrs and size of the void. They were printed in over 20 shades of red, as well as in different blues, greens and in black. The paper was also sometimes treated with chemicals such as prussiate of potash (which would tint the paper blue) or with varnish.<\/p>\n Perkins Bacon usually conducted the experiments themselves, although Rowland Hill did some experiments independently. Perkins Bacon used a number of trial cancels including a \u00ab\u00a0Bank of Ireland\u00a0\u00bb oval, \u00ab\u00a0A x 860\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a03860\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0GRIND\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0GRINDLAY CO\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0No. 71243\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a0No. 712\u00a0\u00bb.<\/p>\n Figure 9 shows a part sheet of 9 from state 3 on un watermarked white wove paper, dipped in Prussiate of Potash, which has been treated by various chemicals in an attempt to remove the cancellations. It shows the nine impressions cancelled by the \u00ab\u00a0No 712\u00a0\u00bb trial cancellation, with ink manuscript notes at top at sides in the hand of Joshua Bacon: \u00ab\u00a0<\/em>Prussic Acid\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0Potash\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0Tartaric Acid\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0Turpentine\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a0Creosote\u00a0\u00bb. <\/i>\u00ab\u00a0No 2\u00a0\u00bb<\/em> denotes the shade of blue and \u00ab\u00a0D-4\u00a0\u00bb<\/em> the order of goodness as determined by Perkins Bacon.<\/span><\/p>\n \n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224471-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 Rainbow Trials with cancellation removal experiment\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50029\/line-engraved-essays-plate-proofs-colour-trials-and-reprints-1840-rainbow-colour-trials-second-trial\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||7px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 9: Lot 50029 in our upcoming 20th June 2024 auction<\/a>, showing a part Rainbow trial sheet in blue with cancellation removal experiments<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″]<\/p>\n Paper and Gum Trials<\/strong><\/p>\n Perkins Bacon also carried out paper and gum trials during this period. Illustrated in figure 10 is an archive large sheet bearing six 1840 1d blacks from plate 7 on the lighter weight paper (the normal weight being 30lbs per ream), annotated as \u00ab\u00a024lbs\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a026lbs\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a028 lbs\u00a0\u00bb in the hand of L. de Nicolas (Rowland Hills clerk), each cancelled by concentric circles cancellation. The lower three stamps of each weight have had an overall brownish wash or varnish applied as part of the trial removal. The top of the sheet bears three gummed paper samples with \u00ab\u00a0present gum\u00a0\u00bb, \u00ab\u00a0New dark No.1\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a0New light No.2\u00a0\u00bb in the hand of Joshua Bacon above.<\/p>\n The experimental lighter paper was used to print plate 7, and illustrated in figure 11, the most important item in our 20th June auction series, is a stunning mint marginal block of 12<\/a>, which once graced the collections of \u00ab\u00a0Daisy\u00a0\u00bb and Bill Gross.<\/p>\n <\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224068-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 1d black paper and gum trials\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50030\/line-engraved-essays-plate-proofs-colour-trials-and-reprints-1840-june-paper-gum-and-cancellation-tr\/\u00a0\u00bb url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb||1px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Fig. 10: Lot 50030 in our upcoming 20th June auction of Great Britain<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_padding=\u00a0\u00bb0px||0px|||\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/224359-scaled.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bb1840 1d black pl.7 mint block of 12 on experimental paper\u00a0\u00bb url=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/www.davidfeldman.com\/dfsa-auctions\/2024-spring-auction-series\/great-britain\/50225\/1840-1d-black-and-1d-red-plates-1a-to-11-1840-1d-black-pl7-fa-gf-the-magnificent-mint-horizontal-blo\/?soff_session_keywords=pl.7″ url_new_window=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4″ _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.16.1″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb]<\/p>\n Further Reading<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0The British Postage Stamp of the Nineteenth Century\u00a0\u00bb, by Robson Lowe<\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0The Maltese Cross\u00a0\u00bb, three volumes, by Mike Jackson<\/a><\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0Rainbow Trials\u00a0\u00bb by David Rowse (available to buy through the GBPS<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n